The human body has several needs. It requires a balance of vitamins, minerals and various other nutrients to function. Out of the numerous requirements for a healthy body, elements like sodium, potassium and calcium play a critical role in ensuring its well-being. Right from regulating your muscle contractions to maintaining sufficient fluid levels, these minerals provide multiple benefits. However, whenever we suffer dehydration due to diarrhoea, vomiting or any other infections, their equilibrium is disturbed. Such a condition is called an electrolyte imbalance, which if not corrected quickly, might turn fatal.
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is an established remedy for such occurrences. For decades medical professionals have recommended its usage to cure an electrolyte imbalance. It is an internationally recommended mixture of essential minerals like sodium and potassium. The efficacy rate of ORS is so high that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has mentioned it in the list of essential medicines. And so, we spoke to Dr Usha Chennuru, Director Media Services at Cipla Health Ltd to understand how this solution works and situations when it can save the day. Here’s what she had to say,
The mixture is precisely made. Once you consume it, the working capacity of the sodium-glucose cotransport system is maximised, and your body is replenished with the necessary electrolytes and water. With a brief idea about its working, it’s time to dive into the critical instances where the use of ORS is imperative
1. Diarrhoea
A large number of viruses, bacteria, parasites and pathogens can cause diarrhoea. Sometimes even raw or improperly cooked food can be the reason behind your upset stomach. During this condition, your body loses significant amounts of fluids. Whether a child or an adult, it is advisable to start taking an oral rehydration solution.
2. Vomiting
Whenever the nerves of your body or brain sense a trigger, the instant reaction is vomiting. It happens due to various reasons like a food poisoning, infection, medicine reaction. While adults can identify the urge to throw up, children often find it difficult to explain and have general complaints like stomach aches. Usually, the vomiting subsides within 24 hours; however, if otherwise, then quickly contact your doctor. As soon as you spot symptoms like dry mouth, reduced urination, or listlessness, start taking ORS. Remember to administer it in small and frequent doses every three to four hours, or as frequently as is needed.
3. High Fever
When your body is fighting any bacteria or infection, it often tends to get a fever. While the bacterial troubles are cured by taking antibiotics, the viral ones subside after running their course. Irrespective of the cause, the body temperature increases making you susceptible to dehydration. Make sure you drink plenty of water, fresh juices or broths to maintain the electrolyte balance in your body. However, for children especially, using ORS will be the best way to keep an imbalance at bay.
4. Exposure To Heatwave
Your body generates immense amounts of heat. As a cooling mechanism, the sweat glands come into action, and you perspire. However, in conditions like extreme heat, increased humidity or while performing high-intensity activities, this system may be overwhelmed. In several cases, the body’s internal heat reaches a dangerous level, and medical intervention is required. To avoid any such mishap, you should always resort to oral rehydration therapy. It will ensure that the body’s mineral requirements are met, adequate fluids are replenished , and its overall functioning is not compromised.
5. Nausea
It is the uneasy feeling you go through before vomiting, though you might not throw up. It is a common sign during the early stages of pregnancy (morning sickness). As per a report, 80% of the women feel nauseous post conceiving. The symptoms typically start after 5 to 10 weeks of gestation. Your body does not lose fluids in this case, but the discomfort brings down the consumption of both food and fluids to a minimum, leading to dehydration. In such a scenario, ORS helps in keeping the body’s functions regulated, thereby protecting the mother as well as the fetus.
By now, we have established the importance of ORS. However, before buying a packet, always make sure it is WHO approved.
Follow @missmalinilifestyle for more such content and information coming right from the experts.